10 Epic Things to Do in Strasbourg + Travel Tips

Things to Do in Strasbourg, France

Strasbourg might not be on your radar as a destination for your next city break, but it’s actually pretty unique and really special French destination to visit.

If you’ve yet to experience this beautiful city in the eastern region of Alsace, then you’re in for a treat!

With French and German influences (you can literally walk over the beautiful River Rhine from France to Germany!), this charming city feels like a movie backdrop; think charming half-timbered houses, a picturesque canal-lined Old Town, bright flowers and an irresistible foodie scene that will have you swooning over tarte flambée and local Alsatian wines.

Sounds dreamy, right?

Wondering whether Strasbourg deserves a place on your travel bucket list this year?

Then here are the top 10 epic things to do in Strasbourg and my essential travel guide to this super city!

France, Strasbourg, Me

 


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Is Strasbourg Worth Visiting?

France, Alsace, Medieval Strasbourg

If you ask me, the answer is a resounding yes!

Strasbourg is a great place to visit—one of the most beautiful cities in Europe in my opinion!

With its historic and picturesque areas that make it look like something from a Disney fairytale (Beauty and Beast is meant to be based on the Alsace villages around Strasbourg), to the unique culture, delicious food, fab wine tasting, great cycling opps, world-famous Cathedral and Rhine River backdrop here, you’re likely to want to extend your stay as much as I did!

If you do want to explore for a little longer, then heading around the famous Alsace region (by car or bike) for a few days is a great option, as is motoring on to nearby, neighbouring Germany where the beautiful Black Forest awaits you.

To learn more about these stunning side trips, and the city of Strasburg itself, keep reading!

 

When to Visit Strasbourg

France, Strasbourg, Me on Bridge

Visiting during the summer months is the best time take in the historic centre and surrounding villages of Strasbourg in the most beautiful weather.

Crowds will be thick during July and August however (as will prices!), so opt for June or September instead.

Otherwise, autumn is a great time to visit Strasbourg and the Alsace region – famous for its vineyards.

Grape harvesting usually happens in September / October, so there’s festivals and tastings galore following this!

Finally, if it’s authentic and charming Christmas markets you’re after, then it’s all about visiting Strasbourg in December.

 

How to Get to Strasbourg

France, Strasbourg, Tram

Flying to Strasbourg

The fastest way to get to Strasbourg from the UK, and beyond, is by taking a flight.

As always, I use Skyscanner to find the best deals.

Direct connections from London take just over 1 hour and 30 minutes and can be as cheap as £50 for a return trip.

You can literally leave the English capital in the morning and be in Strasbourg for lunch!

Jump on the regular train service from the city’s airport to the centre of town, which takes only 10 minutes.

 

Travelling by land to Strasbourg

If you’re not a fan of flying, aiming to reduce your carbon footprint and have plenty of time on your hands, then taking the train can be a fun way to travel to Strasbourg from London.

The fastest train journey from London takes around 5 and a half hours from London, and involves catching the Eurostar to Paris and then a direct train from Paris to Strasbourg.

This is the journey I made to get to Strasbourg from London, and I loved it!

Use Trainline, like I did, to easily book the whole thing for a good price.

Another option is to bring your car from the UK, via the Channel Tunnel or ferry, and then drive to Strasbourg through France.

 

Map of Strasbourg France: Top Things to Do

 

10 Best Things to Do in Strasbourg

France, Alsace, Strasbourg River

If you’re ready to explore one of Europe’s most magical spots, you’ll want to know how to make the most out of your time in stunning Strasbourg.

Well, look no further, than my top 10 things to do in Strasbourg…

 

#1 Get Festive at the Strasbourg France Xmas Market

Strasbourg is often referred to as the “capital of Christmas” and experiencing the magic of the world-famous Strasbourg Christmas Market, is definitely one of the top things to do in this city.

Dating back to 1570, the Strasbourg Christmas Market is actually one of the oldest in Europe and you can easily soak it all in by visiting the city in December.

The main market is held right in the city centre, around Place Kléber, and boasts handmade crafts, unique gifts, mulled wine, and Bredele (Christmas cookies).

Enjoyed alongside giant Christmas trees and twinkly lights, it’s bound to instantly get you in the festive mood.

 

#2 Relax in the Petite France Quarter

Often referred to as ‘Little Venice’, this is a beautiful historic area in the centre of Strasbourg, where you can easily wander around and enjoy a spot of lunch.

Colourful half-timbered houses dating back to the 16th century line the picturesque river waterway here, and there are many great bars, restaurants, and shops to explore at your leisure too.

The area of Le Petite France is actually small island, located in the river that flows through Strasbourg, but it’s easy to get to simply by crossing the bridge.

In fact, you get a great view of the place when crossing the bridge linking Le Petite France to the city – an Instagram hit for sure!

Within walking distance from the Strasbourg Cathedral, don’t miss this gorgeous historic area when you visit the city.

 

#3 Sail Away on a Grande Île Boat Tour

Nothing beats a boat tour, especially when you need to rest tired travel feet!

So why not sail away on the River Ile to the picturesque Petite France district, passing through the locks and seeing the impressive Vauban dam enroute.

Most tours last at least 45 minutes, and the guides have some great anecdotes that keep the trip interesting.

The majority of boat trips depart near the Notre Dam Cathedral beneath the Palais Rohain.

Special Christmas cruises are also available during December.

Read more about these boat trips here.

 

#4 Explore the European Quarter By Boat

The once you’ve checked out Le  Petite France, why not sail to the European District of Strasbourg – home to European institutions, such as the European Parliament.

Seeing the European Quarter via boat is pretty impressive, but the area is also well worth a visit on foot.

Don’t miss the Council of Europe and the European Court of Human Rights.

Not only is the architecture of these buildings unique, but you can also take a tour of parliament, and if you time it right, you can view a debate in progress too.

 

#5 Admire the Impressive Cathedral

Strasbourg’s Notre Dame Cathedral is one of the main tourist attractions in Strasbourg and is architecturally jaw-droppping.

Dating back to 1176, glimpsing this Gothic structure for the first time is likely to resort in a real wow moment, as you round the corner on Rue Mercière to see this historic monument in all its glory.

Enjoy a walk outside Strasbourg Cathedral and grab some great photos (especially at sunset), before popping inside to admire the equally impressive interior, particularly the astronomical clock and stained-glass windows.

The cathedral is actually the tallest building in Strasbourg, so it’s easy to see the spire from miles around.

I recommend taking on the challenge of climbing the 329-step spiral staircase in the spire to the viewing platform on the Cathedral roof, from where you can enjoy an impressive view over La Petite France.

The cathedral is easily reachable on foot, located right in the city centre, and is surrounded by a pleasant pedestrianised plaza.

Tickets are part of the Strasbourg Pass, which also gives access to boat tours, walking tours, segway tours and museums across the city at a reduced rate.

 

#6 Wander Around the Centre-Ville de Strasbourg

Centre-Ville is the area around Strasbourg’s Notre Dame Cathedral and forms the heart of the Alsace captial.

Pretty easy to find your way around, stroll the narrow cobblestone streets at your leisure, taking in the enchanting architecture, before stopping for a cafe au lait at a local bar to watch the crowds go by!

 

#7 Visit a Top Museum

As an ancient city (dating back as far as the Roman times), Strasbourg has regularly switched hands between Germany and France, giving the city a unique cultural and historical flavour.

As such, it’s no surprise there are plenty of fascinating museums scattered across the city to tell its story.

My top three recommendations are…

  • Contemporary Art Museum Impressive works by Monet, Picasso, Kandinsky, and Brauner, as well as topical artists and new talent to really spark your imagination. Make sure you visit the museum bookshop and eat lunch at the Art Café – a welcome escape from a warm day in Strasbourg (also a great activity if it rains!)
  • Musée Alsacien Visit this museum to learn more about the historic culture of Strasbourg and the Alsace region. It’s like a walk into the past, as the museum is in a traditional and charming old building. Furniture, toys, costumes, and tools show how people lived here in the 18th and 19th centuries.
  • Archaeological Museum Housed in the basement of the Palais Rohan, you can spend a pleasant hour or so looking at the interesting artefacts (jewellery, ceramics, etc.) from the Roman and Gallic periods. Found in the same building are the Museum of Fine Arts and the Museum of Decorative Arts, so stay a little longer and enjoy these too.

 

#8 Admire the Impressive Architecture and Bridges by Bike

Strasbourg is a regional capital full of impressive architecture and bridges, so if you enjoy wandering around a new city and soaking up the sights, you won’t be disappointed here.

That said, if you’re anything like me, time can often escape you, so check out these highlights to keep you on track!

The Ponts Couverts in Le Petite France is impressive defensive structure guarding the city – don’t miss.

Rent a bike and cycle across the Europe Bridge to visit Kehl, Germany, on one side, and then back to Strasbourg, France – an experience in European unity.

For architecture, Place Kléber (the main square in Strasbourg), La Neustadt, Place de la République, and the Palais du Rhin are must-explores too.

 

#9 Relax in the Parc de L’Orangerie

Strasbourg’s oldest park covers a whopping 26 hectares of beautiful green space, and is a good place to kick back and relax after a busy day sightseeing.

Don’t miss the Pavillion Joséphine, which is built to honour Napoleon Bonaparte’s wife, Empress Josephine, even though she never lived in Strasbourg!

The statue of Gänseliesel (a.k.a. Goose Lizzy, the protector of geese) and the impressive pond and garden are also well worth checking out.

 

#10 Experience the MM Park France

If you’re keen to discover a compelling slice of World War II history, then MM Park France is one of the must-see attractions when visiting Strasbourg.

MM Park contains a huge range of World War II tanks, trucks, motorbikes, and military uniforms.

It also has a great cafe and a kids’ play area, perfect for a rainy day activity.

You can hop on a local bus to get there, as the museum is just outside La Wantzenau.

 

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How Long to Spend in Strasbourg?

France, Strasbourg, Petite France

The city centre is fairly small and you can see most of it in 1 big sightseeing day.

Stretch this to 2 days, if you’d rather enjoy Strasbourg at a leisurely pace.

For the whole Alsace region, I suggest giving yourself 5 days, allowing you to take in the wine tasting, cycling and stunning Disney-like villages of the area properly.

 

How to Spend One Day in Strasbourg

Strasbourg, Cathedral, Pink Hue

Head to the Centre-Ville de Strasbourg area for breakfast at one of the many great cafes, then wander around the shops and visit the impressive Cathedral Notre Dame de Strasbourg, including up the exterior spiral staircase to the rooftop viewing platform.

Timing your visit around midday will allow you to see the animated figures perform on the astronomical clock at 12.30 pm each day, or you can enjoy a guided tour like these ones.

Jump on a boat tour to see the sights of Strasbourg from a new perspective and learn more about the city from your guide.

Enjoy lunch and spend some time exploring Petite-France.

Wander the cobbled streets, cross bridges, visit interesting shops, and climb the Vauban Dam for panoramic views over Strasbourg.

If you wish, visit the Musée Alsacien or the Contemporary Art Museum which are close by, for an hour or so of culture in the afternoon.

Wrap up your one-day visit to Strasbourg with some tasty local cuisine at Restaurant Les Chauvins Pere & Fils, where you can sample mouthwatering tapas-style Alsatian specialities.

 

Day Trips from Strasbourg, France

France, Cycling Alsace, Me

If you plan to spend more time in Strasbourg and the Alsace region, Strasbourg is the perfect place to base yourself on day trips.

Here’s are my best picks…

 

Colmar, Alsace

Hop on the train from Strasbourg train station to arrive in Colmar in less than half an hour.

For details, make sure you read my guide on how to travel from Strasbourg to Colmar.

This medieval old town is stunningly beautiful to explore; literally like a postcard as you wander around the old city and laze by the river.

 

Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg, Alsace

A must-see, spectacular castle overlooking the village of Orschwiller and vineyards—think Beauty and the Beast in real life!

The chateau has incredible views, impressive ramparts and towers in pink sandstone, along with a beautiful interior.

Catch a train from Strasbourg and take a taxi up to the castle in around 30 minutes.

Buy your entry tickets in advance to skip the queues.

 

The Wider Alsace Region

Combining great wine and the beautiful Alsace region is a win-win, trust me!

Take a trip on the famous Alsace wine route, which starts in Strasbourg and goes all the way to Mulhouse in the south, to see more of the extraordinary region, visiting villages and vineyards along the way.

Although I recommend spending several days exploring the Alsace Wine Route, if you don’t have much time, make sure you explore at least some of the region just south of Strasbourg on a day trip.

Take a look at this full-day wine tour from Strasbourg for more ideas. – it’s the perfect guided experience, but if you’d prefer to do it independently, it will give you plenty of inspiration.

Make sure you also look at this Alsace Village Wine Route tour.

If you plan to explore Alsace over a few days, don’t forget to read my guides to Alsace camping and the top Alsace Airbnbs as well.

 

Paris, France

What can I say?!

Paris is an exciting and amazing city to visit, so don’t miss the opportunity to explore the French capital for the first time or return to experience the magic of Paris again.

Taking the fast train from Strasbourg takes just under two hours each way.

For fellow budget travellers, here’s my guide to visiting Paris on a budget.

I recommend the Paris hop-on hop-off bus if you’re visiting on a day trip only.

 

Freiburg, Germany

Freiburg is an absolute treat to visit as a day trip from Strasbourg (it takes just 1 hour to get there via train, bus, or car).

Located in the beautiful Baden-Württemberg (Black Forest) region in Germany, Freiburg offers plenty of history and nature to enjoy, as well as fabulous food and great German beer gardens!

Make sure you read my guide to the top things to do in Freiburg to inspire your trip.

 

Heidelberg, Germany

Another German gem!

Heidelberg is a historic town located on the beautiful River Neckar, famous for its prestigious university, grand castle, and picturesque Baroque Old Town.

Taking the train or driving from Strasbourg to Heidelberg takes only 1.5 hours, making it perfect for a day trip too.

 

Travel Tips for Strasbourg, France 

France, Strasbourg, Bridge

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SAVE THIS ARTICLE TO PINTEREST!

 

Strasbourg is a charming city that combines history, culture, and beauty to create a highly memorable travel experience.

From the marvellous gothic cathedral and beautiful La Petite France neighbourhood, to the excitement of the famous Christmas market, impressive European quarter, and quirky shops, there really is something here for everyone.

If you want my advice, Strasbourg is a fairytale city not to be missed off your French travel list!

 


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